Dispersal order in Woolton to be extended this week

We are extending a Dispersal Order in Woolton following recent incidents of antisocial behaviour in the area. 
 
The order started from 2pm on Friday 7 October and will now run until 4am on Monday 10 October. Officers will remain in the area to provide a visible presence and deal with any incidents.
 
The Dispersal Zone covers the area on the map, including Menlove Avenue, Beaconsfield Road, Woolton Hill Road, Rose Brow, Hunts Cross Avenue, Kings Drive, Speke Road, School Lane, Camp Hill Woods Footpath, High Street, Allerton Road.
 
These reports relates to recent incidents of anti-social behaviour in the area, including fires and youths congregating in large groups, intimidating people and using fireworks in Camp Hill Park and in the village. 
 
The order comes under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour & Policing Act 2014, which gives police officers and police community support traffic officers powers to direct people they suspect are causing or likely to cause crime, nuisance or anti-social behaviour to members of the public to leave a designated area and not return for up to 48 hours. 
 
Under the legislation, officers have the power to seize any item, including vehicles, used in the commission of anti-social behaviour. 
 
Should a person who has previously been directed to leave the area return, an offence would be committed, which they may ultimately be arrested for. 

Community Policing Inspector Leigh Price said: “We have extended the dispersal order from earlier this week so that we can continue to prevent youths gathering and causing unnecessary distress and intimidation to people who want to go about their business without fear or harm.  
 
“This order is not designed to prevent the overwhelming majority of people who behave safely and responsibly from visiting Woolton. It is to deter any anti-social behaviour and keep our community in Woolton safe.
 
“We have an increased police presence around these areas and will take action when issues are reported. 
 
“As we approach the Bon-fire period we would be grateful for any information around the illegal sale of fireworks to young people.
 
“I would also urge parents and guardians to know where young people in your care are, to further assist us in dealing with those who cause trouble.
 
“If you have any concerns about anti-social behaviour in your area  then please speak to our officers on patrol.”
 
Anyone who wishes to report anti-social or criminal behaviour can contact @MerPolCC, 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 in an emergency.